We’re sorry to read that Robert Eley decided to resign from the Isle of Wight County School Board recently, but we respect his decision.

For several years the representative for Carrsville District had evidently worked hard — and smart, of course — in helping to guide the school system in education, finances and policies. But as he explained, the duties require more than just sitting down to a monthly meeting.

As anyone who’s ever served on any kind of board, knows there’s a lot of reading, research and fielding questions and complaints that also come with the job.

That’s time which could also be spent on one’s personal career or family. Realizing that the latter two were more in need of his attention, understandably, Eley decided it was best for someone else to serve who could devote their full attention to the task.

We wish Eley well, and look forward to whoever is chosen to fill his big shoes.